Hanoi To Halong Bay Distance: Ultimate Guide for Easy Travel

If you’re planning a trip to Halong Bay, you might be wondering about the “Hanoi To Halong Bay distance” and how long it takes to get there. It can be a bit confusing to figure out the best route and transportation options. You don’t want to waste time or feel stressed on your journey. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to find out exactly how far it is and the easiest way to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay.

Hanoi to Halong Bay Distance

The distance from Hanoi city center to Ha Long Bay is about 130 kilometers. Thanks to the new expressway, the trip now takes only around 2.5 hours. It’s a smooth and easy ride, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. Whether you’re going for a quick getaway or starting your cruise adventure, getting to Ha Long from Hanoi has never been faster or more convenient. Just pack your bags and get ready for a fun trip!

How To Get To Halong Bay From Hanoi?

Wondering how to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi? There are 5 travel options, each with its own benefits, making your journey both easy and enjoyable.

By Bus: Affordable and Convenient

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, taking a Ha noi to Ha Long Bay bus is a popular choice. Buses depart from My Dinh or Gia Lam bus station in Hanoi and take about 3.5 hours to reach Bai Chay bus station in Quang Ninh province. From there, you can easily catch a taxi to the pier or your hotel in Halong City. However, keep in mind that this option might not be ideal for international visitors due to language barriers and the risk of potential scams. Be sure to plan ahead to avoid any issues!

✅ Pros:

• A cost-effective direct transfer – no need to switch buses
• Comfortable buses with sleeping berths, Wi-Fi, water, and blankets
• Great for resting or sleeping during the journey
• Saves money compared to flights or private cars
• Good choice for backpackers or budget travelers
• Some buses offer hotel pick-up and drop-off service
• Enjoy scenic views of mountains and countryside along the way
  

❌ Cons:

• Risk of scams or fake tickets – always book with trusted companies
• Long travel time (7–9 hours), which can feel tiring
• Winding mountain roads may cause motion sickness
• Limited rest stops for food or bathroom breaks
• Not ideal if you’re in a hurry or short on time
• Space can be tight if you have lots of luggage

Do you want to book a bus from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay that’s easy, cheap, and super comfy? Click here to book fast and easy – let’s go!

By Private Car: Enjoy Comfort and Flexibility

If you prefer privacy and a quicker trip, hiring a private car is a great option. You can easily book one through cruise operators or transport suppliers. The car will pick you up at your location and take you directly to Halong Bay, saving you time and offering a more comfortable journey. Just keep in mind that, due to legal requirements in Vietnam, you won’t be able to drive the car yourself, but it’s still a convenient choice for many travelers.

✅ Pros:

• Comfortable and private: Enjoy a relaxed, personal journey without sharing the space with others.
• Faster travel time: Direct route without stops, usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Flexible schedule: Choose your departure time to suit your needs.
• Door-to-door service: Pickup from your hotel in Hanoi and drop-off at your hotel or pier in Halong Bay.
• Convenience: No need to deal with public transport or complicated connections.

❌ Cons:

• Higher cost: Private cars are more expensive than buses or other public transport options.
• No self-driving: Due to legal restrictions in Vietnam, you cannot drive the car yourself.
• Traffic concerns: Travel time can vary depending on road conditions and traffic.
• Limited flexibility in route: You are dependent on the driver’s route and the vehicle’s availability.

By Shuttle Tourist Bus from Hanoi Old Quarter 

Going from Hanoi to Halong Bay by private car is easy and comfortable. The car will come to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and take you straight to the boat. You do not need to wait or stop many times. The car has soft seats, air conditioning, and sometimes even WiFi. The driver is friendly, knows the way, and can speak a little English. You can relax, look out the window, and enjoy the trip. This is a good choice if you want a quiet and easy ride with no stress.

✅ Pros:

• Affordable: Shuttle buses are a budget-friendly option compared to private cars.
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off: They typically pick you up directly from hotels in the Old Quarter and drop you off at the pier or hotels in Halong Bay.
• Comfortable and spacious: These buses are designed for tourists, offering more comfort than regular public buses.

❌ Cons:

• Longer travel time: The journey can take 3.5 to 4 hours due to multiple stops for pickups and drop-offs.
• Fixed schedule: You’ll have to stick to the bus operator’s set departure times, which may not fit your preferred timing.
• Limited flexibility: Buses have a fixed route, so you may not be able to adjust your travel plans easily.
• Potential overcrowding: Depending on the season, the bus can sometimes be crowded, making the ride less comfortable.

By Helicopter/Seaplane: Breathtaking Aerial Views

For a luxurious and unforgettable experience, you can travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by helicopter or seaplane. The Vietnam Northern Service Flight Company offers charter flights with seating for 12 or 24 passengers. This option lets you enjoy stunning aerial views of Halong Bay, giving you a unique and breathtaking perspective of the landscape as you fly over it.

✅ Pros:

• Unique experience: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Halong Bay and the surrounding landscapes.
• Fast travel time: The flight takes about 45 minutes, much quicker than road options.
• Luxurious and comfortable: A high-end, premium service offering comfort and a memorable experience.
• Convenience: No need to deal with traffic or long travel times on the ground.

❌ Cons:

• High cost: This is the most expensive travel option, making it less affordable for many travelers.
• Limited seating: The number of seats is limited, and availability may be an issue during peak times.
• Weather-dependent: Flights can be canceled or delayed due to poor weather conditions.
• Limited availability: Not all travelers may have access to this service, depending on their schedule or location.

By Train: A Scenic and Relaxing Journey

You can take a Hanoi to Halong Bay train, but it’s not a popular choice. The train leaves from Yen Vien Station, which is 13 km from the city center. It arrives at Halong Railway Station. However, this option may not be the best because the train is not very comfortable, and the stations are far from the piers.

✅ Pros:

• Scenic journey: Enjoy the views along the way to Halong Bay.
• Affordable: Train tickets are generally cheaper than private cars or flights.
• Relaxed atmosphere: You can sit back and enjoy a slower pace of travel.

❌ Cons:

• Less comfort: The train is not as comfortable as other transport options.
• Limited convenience: The train stations are far from the piers, requiring extra travel time to reach your destination.
• Longer travel time: The train journey takes more time compared to other faster transport options.
• Not popular: Few people use this method, so the train can feel less reliable and have fewer services.

Conclusion

The Hanoi to Halong Bay distance is not very far. There are many ways to go. You can take a bus, a car, a train, a seaplane, or a helicopter. Each way has good and bad things. It depends on your time and money. Now you know more about the distance and how to travel. You can choose the best way for you. Have a good trip and enjoy Halong Bay